Police are warning motorists across the city – but especially in Plymstock – to beware of thieves targeting insecure cars overnight.

Investigators say they have received reports of a spate of night-time incidents where car and van owners have left their vehicles unlocked, allowing crooks to easily enter and steal cash, electronic devices and tools left on show.

Det Sgt Jon Manning said police were concerned at the apparent complacency of some residents, particularly in some areas of the city which may be considered low crime spots.

Police believe Elburton and Plymstock have been specifically targeted by the city’s criminal element because those areas are seen as soft targets with relatively high rewards.

“You may believe you live in area of the city which is relatively crime free, however you still have to think about crime prevention and act upon it.

“It easy to forget to lock your car or forget to remove valuables from being on show in your vehicle, or to allow yourself to become complacent because you live in an area where you think that these kinds of thefts don’t occur.

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“We know vehicles in Elburton and other parts of Plymstock are being targeted in the very early hours of the morning, that the suspects are going onto people’s driveways and checking handles.

Police are warning motorists to remove valuables from their vehicles overnight

“Once inside they take any loose cash on show, any electrical items like satnavs, mobile phone, children’s entertainment devices which have been left behind.

“We believe there are a number of individuals who are very active in these areas, travelling from other parts of the city to target vehicles in Elburton and Plymstock and we would strongly urge residents to take precautions.

“Please remove cash and items from show.

“Make sure you lock your cars and we strongly endorse the use of CCTV.

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“Systems are very cheap nowadays and good quality CCTV often results in the police catching and convicting offenders.

“We also want to hear from people who have been targeted or who have seen anything suspicious. If your cars has been entered – whether it was locked or not – we want you to report it, regardless of how much or how little has been taken.

“Officers are currently carrying out a series of investigations and need a full picture to be able to track down those responsible.

“I would also seek to re-assure residents that the police are pro-actively responding to this emerging threat.”